croissantanyone's Profile

Had one day in Boston and wasn't anticipating a lunch. Family and friends were depending on me for a recommendation, so I quickly glanced at this post and went to the Daily Catch for seafood. This was one of the most disappointing dining experiences I've had. I let down everyone.

The food was below mediocre. We ordered calamari, which arrived over fried and mostly with bits of batter. I had the house specialty of the puttanesca black pasta with scallops. The scallops were nicely cooked, but the black pasta seemed to be made with a pound of salt. The broiled fish was insipid and the accompanying vegetables were burnt rather than broiled. Shrimp was fine but forgettable.

The decor and service of the restaurant were mundane. The restaurant is tucked away in an office building without much ambiance.

All in all, I would not ever recommend this restaurant to anyone. There must be better food in Boston!

Also, I wanted to add that Natural Meadows Farm sells grass-fed beef from hormone free cows every Saturday at the Greensgrow, Fitler Square, and Landsdowne Farmer's market. The beef is very tasty and they usually have a variety of cuts.

In proximity to Center City, I would say that your best bet is Fitler's Square Farmer's Market. For fruit, there is both Brogue and Highland Orchards, which have a variety of fruit. Additionally, the market has natural, local meat as well as locally roasted coffee and bread.

Village Whiskey has an average burger. Far better is their "pickles" and whiskey menu. Yet, if your friend is a fries aficionado, and who among us isn't, it is worth mentioning that Village Whiskey has duck fat fries. They're good. For my money, though, the best burgers are from Royal Tavern, Grace Tavern, Standard Tap, and Memphis Taproom. Another advantage of all these places is there fantastic beer selection--the perfect burger accompaniment.

Hello Pacific NW 'Hounds:We'll be touring Seattle and Portland in the coming weeks and wanted recommendations for restaurants, bakeries, markets, etc., that specialize in local and artisanal food. I've been perusing the board and know of many of the main attractions; however, I wanted to hear of locally grown, cooked, and/or produced favorites. Also, I would appreciate any recommendations for parks or plazas where one could serenely and elegantly picnic. It's my first time to these cities and I am nothing less than rhapsodic. (I'm from Philly, and while we have amazing food, we have no trees nor interesting topography.) Thank you in advance.

I would also recommend T.J. Maxx; they often have All-Clad, though it's hit and miss. I bought a large saucepan there for $30 and a small stock pot for $15. I'm not sure if they're irregulars, but if they are, you can't tell. Good hunting!

In desire of gastropub fare, but tired of our usual haunts, a few friends and I ventured to Pub and Kitchen (19th and Lombard). I had been to the former restaurant, Chaucer's, once before, and the transformation was drastic. Pub and Kitchen has been able to achieve lighting nirvana in their small space, creating a warmth that filters throughout. Service was quick and attentive without being overbearing. But on to the food.

I highly recommend trying the Bar Snacks, which are a steal at $3 a pop. We sampled the duck liver pate and fish mop rolls. The latter were delicious. If memory and taste serve me correctly, it was some kind of white fish combined with a creme fraiche accompanied by potatoes and herbs on crusty bread, all of which is underscored by a hint of citrus. The flavors are sophisticated and complex. Two large pieces come to an order.

Entrees: I was in the mood to go light, so I ordered the onion soup ($8) with a side of brussels sprouts ($5). What made the onion soup distinct was the addition of some kind of wheat beer (I think) to the broth, which stood up to the strength of the cheese and paired well with the sweet, caramelized onions. My only complaint: some of the cheese on top of the soup burned at the edges under the broiler. My side of brussels didn't achieve as high marks. The brussels were overcooked as well as the accompanying bacon. The flavors hit the mark, blending well, but the execution fell short.

We had also ordered the fish and chips, an altogether unspectacular dish, especially considering the steep price tag: $16-18 (don't remember exactly). The chips lacked a certain crispness, adding to the overall ineptitude. Also ordered was the steak and potatoes ($22). Not more perfectly could the steak be cooked! Rare, au poivre, and blissful. Not as much could be said of the potatoes, done in a hash brown/latke style, which seemed old and overdone.

In all, a pleasurable experience with exceptional flavor and ambiance; however, echoing other reviews, the actual cooking has yet to find its groove. Potatoes and brussels, especially at this price point, should be done without error. This has yet to happen.

To sit at the bar with a drink and "bar snack" before venturing out for the evening--yes, this would be delightful and really the most prudent of actions.

Anyone know of a good place that can hold a group of 30 that is reasonably priced ($20 or less person)? I'm wondering if anyone knows of any PDRs within this price range... The location is flexible, W. Philly, Center City, NoLibs, Italian Market, etc. Thanks in advance.

All,I am in charge of planning a philosophy conference and need to find a restaurant that is moderate in price ($15-18 per person) that would be able to hold 20-30 people. I want to use a BYOB, since I think that we will be able to keep costs down and also be able to drink far more (in case you didn't know philosophers love to drink). Suggestions I've received so far are mostly Chinese or Vietnamese restaurants, since they are the only "larger" byobs (as far as I know). But I am open to anything. Suggestions?

I'd like to share two unexpected delights that I have had. On the one hand, the pizza at 69th street terminal. The shop is unassuming, dingy, and altogether unattractive, yet the pizza is delicious and cheap. There is a constant flow of new pies fresh out of the oven, and a reliant arsenal of flavor combos--meatball, sausage, chicken and veggies, and pepperoni. I haven't had pizza in center city that tops it. A bold assertion I know, but I would even take it over Pizza Rustica (maybe not) or insert favorite pizza place.

Second, Hamifgash at 811 Sansom St. Great Israeli food. I found this place out of dire hunger and without any expectations; nonetheless, great food. I had a stunning lentil soup with plenty of citrus and homemade pita. The entree consisted of a perfectly spiced tender little lamb with fresh tomato and lettuce. Anyone else eat here?

I'd like to know if anyone else has these unexpected finds? I ask since it seems that the same places are often recycled on this board. OK. Ok. So I need to go to Zahav or Melagrano or Chloe or Matyson or Dmitiri or Little Fish or RTM or whatever--I got it. These are great established places. But where can I find great food (especially local and sustainable) where I would least expect it?

I second Memphis Taproom. The wings there are excellent. They use a pilsner-brine and very meaty wings, so that each bite is unbelievably succulent and satisfying. The blue cheese dip is phenomenal with large chunks of blue cheese intact. And a small order for only $7! Go there now.

I dined at Alinea with a full vegetarian (no meat and no fish) and they accommodated her wonderfully. The courses were the same but with interesting substitutions. In a way, I recommend it even for non-veggos, since one is able to see and taste even more.

Brunch is a tricky issue in this city. I've been to most of the places mentioned so far but would never dream of going back.

Marathon--while I have been for brunch, this is undoubtedly the most disgusting restaurant I've ever been to. Anyone who claims to have an interest in food and frequents this restaurant is kidding themselves.

Honeys--pancakes, yes, they're good. That being said, most of their other items are sub-par (greasy, bland). Each time I have eaten there the service has been mediocre. Usually only half the table is brought out, and then 10+ minutes later the rest of the party. C'mon, it's eggs and bacon people!

Sabrinas--the food is ok, but definitely not worth the wait on the weekends. Also, the portions are far too big; I would prefer less food and a cheaper meal.

A recent pleasant brunch experience: Memphis Taproom. They have just begun serving brunch. No wait and interesting menu choices. Check them out.

While there are many fine coffee shops around Chicago. I'll suggest three:

The premier latte is found at Metropolis (1039 W Granville Ave (773) 764-0400). They roast their own coffee and have extremely well trained baristas.

Bourgeois Pig on Lincoln/Fullerton/Halsted has good lattes and acts as campus coffee shop for DePaul. They have the largest tea selection in the city (I believe) as well as soups, sandwiches, and relaxed ambiance.

The Fixx Cafe on Sheffield, south of Belmont, has excellent coffee as well as an airy atmosphere. Panes Cafe, across the street, has tasty sandwiches and soups.

Made reservations for Moto and I wanted to know what I would be missing by not doing the GTM, but 10 course menu. What is the time frame for the ten course? Also, any other feedback on any recent experiences would be appreciated.

I recently read that in response to those who want to ban foie gras local chefs have staged a coup and are offering foie gras items for $5. Does anyone know the story on this? If true, where can I purchase such things? And has anyone indulged already and have recs?

Last night my girlfriend and I attended the tasting menu at Green Zebra. As the sun set on the street we enjoyed ten dishes, all vegetarian, and ten wines (split between us). Our waitress was lovely and took the time to give us detailed explanations of each course and wine pairing. Almost every dish exceeded my expectations. Below I've presented a few highlights.

Potato Leek Fennel SoupThis warm soup had a rich, creamy broth with pieces of candied fennel and orange at the bottom. Even on a warm summer’s evening the broth isn’t too heavy. The soup was paired with a slightly sweet German Riesling. The wine contrasted nicely with the creaminess of the soup and helped to bring out the nuanced orange notes. At first I tried to be reserved in eating this soup, little bit by little bit, but I must confess that at nearing the bottom of the bowl I became the voracious American, shovel by shovel.

Chilled Arugula Soup with Shaved Black Truffle and Roasted TomatoesThe other soup served represented another part of summer—the good part in my opinion. This soup screamed dirt, meadows, and sitting under trees; the wine did the same. Served cold the broth was pureed arugula with emulsified with olive oil. At the center of the bowl stood a small mound of tomatoes topped with a good portion of sliced black truffles. All this was paired divinely with a French sauv blanc that had earthy, green pepper notes. Very refreshing.

Eggplant Dumplings with Ginger Lemongrass FoamI don’t remember everything in this dish, but it worked perfectly. This dish is pretty much what its title indicates. The crispy dumplings seemed to be seasoned with a mix of cumin, coriander, turmeric, i.e. some kind of curry mixture. At first bite you would experience the curry and eggplant and then the eggplant would continue to support the finish of lemongrass and ginger.

Sweet Corn Pancakes with Sweet Corn Ice Cream and BlueberriesThis dish was completely whimsical. The dessert was presented like a pancake breakfast, two small corn pancakes with blueberries and a small scoop of corn ice cream acting as “butter.” Quite delicious.

The places mentioned so far are decent, but I don't think they offer an enjoyable dining experience. Check out Rose Angelis in Lincoln Park. The restaurant is located in a little store front in a completely residential area. As you are led further and further into the restaurant any memories of the street are forgotten. The service is wonderful and of course most importantly--the food is delicious. I recommend the duck tortellini in a port wine/brown butter sauce.